What did I learn about Jesus? Jesus insists on his own self-care. Jesus commends the risk-taking Peter, even when he fails. What did I learn about disciple-making? Bring Jesus what you have—he will multiply it (verses 19-20). Respond to Jesus’ invitation to, “Come” (verse 29). Extended thoughts and observations: Again, I offer my thoughts […]
Matthew 13
What did I learn about Jesus? Jesus uses parables—stories about ordinary things everyone would have been familiar with—to explain what the Kingdom of God is like. Jesus was rejected by his hometown. What did I learn about disciple-making? Disciple-makers gather to hear the teachings of Jesus. Followers of Jesus keep asking for explanations. Extended […]
Matthew 12
What did I learn about Jesus? Jesus reiterates that he is divine (verse 8). Jesus was a student of the Word (which speaks to importance of OUR studying and memorizing the Word). What did I learn about disciple-making? Again, our genuineness as disciples is clearly evidenced by the fruit of our lives. When you follow […]
Matthew 11
What did I learn about Jesus? Jesus shares a strong identity with the Father (verse 27). Jesus faced opposition (verses 20-24). What did I learn about disciple-making? The comfort for our doubts is the surety of who Jesus is evidenced in the life he lived (verse 1-19). Disciple-making is an invitation to rest and labor […]
You aren’t as relational as you think you are!
A team of us went to a disciple-making conference back in October. Frankly, we were prepared. We had read all the materials, we were “talkin’ the talk,” we were committed to disciple-making as our way forward as a congregation. So, one morning, our co-facilitator said, “We’ve decided to throw away the script. You guys understand […]
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Matthew 10
What did I learn about Jesus? Jesus passed on his authority to heal and teach to his followers. Jesus sent his followers to face persecution without fear. What did I learn about disciple-making? Jesus promised that the road would not be easy for disciple-makers; there would be persecution and hatred directed at his followers (verses […]
Matthew 9
What did I learn about Jesus? Jesus claims to be God (verses 1-8). He loves to do new things that unsettle us… and that old systems can’t hold. What did I learn about disciple-making? Disciples are called right in their places of work (verse 9). He commands us to be good shepherds to the crowds…harassed […]
Matthew 8
What did I learn about Jesus? Jesus has the power to heal—physical and spiritual (see esp. verse 16). Jesus has power over nature (verse 26). Jesus was a “going” God…he “goed” (went) and He bids us to go in faith and obedience. Where do I go today at His bidding? What did I learn about disciple-making? […]
Matthew 7
What did I learn about Jesus? Jesus spoke with authority—the authority to teach and to judge. Jesus does not want fans… fawning admirers… He wants followers. What did I learn about disciple-making? Again, whether or not someone is a disciple can be seen by their fruit. Extended thoughts and observations: This is an embarrassment […]
Matthew 6
What did I learn about Jesus? Jesus had a lot to say about praying, fasting, money, and anxiety. What did I learn about disciple-making? Disciple-making requires a loyalty to serve God rather than money. Jesus expects us to give, pray, and fast. Extended thoughts and observations: Jesus expects us to give, pray, fast… that’s […]